By Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Benson Henderson’s Bellator debut did not go well, and the former UFC Lightweight Champion wound up on the wrong end of a dominant decision in his fight with Welterweight Champion Andrey Koreshkov at Bellator 153.

From the outset it was apparent how much of a size difference there was between the two fighters, and Koreshkov very effectively utilized his extra six inches in height and reach throughout the bout. He consistently beat Henderson to the punch, stayed out of range from some return attacks, and stuffed every takedown attempt en route to a clean sweep of 50-45 scorecards.

Henderson’s durability was on display during the fight, and given some of the strikes he was hit with – including a flush flying knee and a handful of knockdown blows throughout the bout – it’s somewhat incredible he made it to the final bell. The win for Koreshkov was huge, and lends him a further air of legitimacy as champion he hasn’t yet enjoyed. For Henderson, he’s got a lot of rebuilding to do, and will likely need to refocus his efforts to a run at 155 lbs.

[Photo (c) Ron Chenoy via USA Today Sports]

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